1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1999 Pontiac Salsa
To start off, 1999 Pontiac Salsa is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Salsa, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. (203 Nm). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Pontiac Salsa. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1999 Pontiac Salsa has manual transmission. 1999 Pontiac Salsa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1999 Pontiac Salsa | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | 280 | Salsa |
Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1499 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 203 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1200 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2750 mm |